How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for a Prospective Adoptive Parent

Your letter of recommendation can help the prospective parent to adopt.

If you have a friend or family member who is trying to adopt a child, part of the application process is to get references or letters of recommendation from three or four people who know her well. Being asked to provide a reference is both an honor and an important responsibility. Before you write your recommendation, think about why the prospective adopter would make an ideal parent, and then present this information in your letter.

Instructions

1. Explain who you are and your relationship with the prospective adopter, including how long you have known him.

2. Elaborate on the prospective adoptive parent's positive traits and how they are conducive to a happy home for an adopted child.

3. Write about any experience she has with children, even if it's informal, such as taking a niece or nephew to the park or baby-sitting your child. Mention any positive instances where you saw her interact with children.

4. Outline the prospective parent's hobbies and interests and how these fit around the adoptive child. For instance, if he likes to cycle, say that you imagine him and his child going on family bike rides together.

5. Refer to her home, both in regards to the atmosphere and its facilities, such as having plenty of space or a big yard for a child to play in.

6. State how he can afford to raise and care for a child, including any promotions received or years at his current job, if applicable. Showing his financial stability helps his credibility in becoming an adoptive parent.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep the letter succinct. Outline all the required information, but don't ramble or get too wordy.

References

• Adoption.com: Letters of Recommendation & References
• World Child: Letters of Reference

Resources

• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Adoption
• LettersofRecommendation.net: Adoption Reference Letter